Current Students
“SB Drum Lab is the place to go if you REALLY want to learn how to play the drums!”
~ Greg H., Student Parent, Santa Barbara, CA
Drum Lab Recital 1
Clay R.
Tyler H.
Pierce
Drum Lab Recital 2
Ashton
SB Drum Lab Veterans
John Willis
Jamie Howell
Maxton Schulte
Russ Cummings
Percussion class at Goleta Presbyterian church
Testimonials From Parents & Students
“Barry has been my son’s drum teacher for five years. He is a phenomenal instructor. He is always patient, and always encouraging. He is one of those people who just knows how to guide kids towards success. Ashton, my son, says Barry never condemns him for not getting it right. He will say,” You are so close, try it again!”. I think this is what my son loves about him. I am sure Ashton would not be where he is today with his drums if it were not for Barry’s eternal kindness and wonderful instruction. We would NEVER go anywhere else!!”
~Polly, P., Santa Barbara, CA
“Barry is a super personable and welcoming teacher who is encouraging and patient with his students. He has a really good gage as to what his students need at any particular time. I loved being Barry’s student.” ~Liam C., Student
“Barry has been my son, Andrew’s drum teacher for over three years. What we find exceptional in Barry’s teaching/coaching is that he takes an interest in the music my son wants to play and finds ways to teach technique while teaching songs he connects to. He is patient and flexible with our very busy schedule which we also appreciate. Barry has been there to support my son with all types of music-orchestral, jazz, and classic rock. We’ve even watched him in action while performing in one of the many bands he’s involved within the community. Barry is truly passionate about his drums and we are grateful to have his support and experience.”
~Felicia R., School Principal, Santa Barbara, CA
“My son Tyler demonstrated a love of drums at the tender age of 5 so he started drum lessons with Barry barely able to reach the kick pedal. It has been 6 years now and Tyler has grown into a competent drummer that can read music and keep the beat to many different types of music. This is no easy task with anyone familiar with the energy level and attention span of boys. Barry you are a wonderful and patient teacher who makes drumming fun. I would highly recommend Barry Birmingham as a teacher to anyone interested in discovering how to play the drums!”
~Pam H., School Music Program Developer & Teacher, Santa Barbara, CA
“Barry Birmingham taught my son, Russ, the drums from the age of 6 until he was 19 years old. During that time, I watched my son go from a barely focused little boy, to an extremely accomplished musician. Barry’s unique way with children – building confidence, while teaching rudiments and his wonderful demeanor, coupled with creating a safe environment, was and is the perfect combination for any youngster to thrive in. My son took his profession as far as he could go. Russ’ pinnacle performance was opening for Eric Burdon and the Animals at the Royal Albert Hall in London. I am certain that Barry made it possible for my son to focus his energies on his passion for playing. I have found Barry to be always professional and personable. Any child can be enriched by having him as a teacher.”
“The Santa Barbara Drum Lab is the place I go to brush up before I tour or record with any artist (Boz Scaggs, Ricky Martin, the late Michael Jackson, Kenny Loggins, Macy Gray, Beyonc’e). Barry and I have been friends for more than 25-years. This brother is a GREAT drum instructor no matter what level you are and the Drum Lab will help you reach your goals. If you’re looking to learn or up your game, do yourself a favor and get to the SB Drum Lab!”
~ Bucket Baker, Professional Drummer